We're cheering you on, Panthers

Good news is not hard to find in the Ozarks, as we illustrate regularly with an editorial feature we call: 'Tis a privilege.

'Tis a privilege to congratulate the Drury University Panthers on the team's first-ever entry in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight. Coach Steve Hesser will lead the Panthers against South Carolina-Aiken in Thursday's quarterfinals in Louisville, Ky. Success over the Pacers will send the team to the semifinals against the winner of the Florida Southern-Western Washington game. Final stop - the championship game at Atlanta on April 7. Go, Panthers!

'Tis a privilege to tentatively welcome Carol A. Taylor to Springfield. Taylor, president of Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, Calif., has been selected as the next president of Evangel University in 2014 with the proviso that the assignment is dependent on the Higher Learning Commission's approval of the consolidation of Evangel, Central Bible College and the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary - all Springfield-based schools owned by the Assemblies of God General Headquarters.

Taylor would replace Robert Spence, the university's longest serving president, at 40 years. She will have some big shoes to fill, both at the school and in the community.

'Tis a privilege to read "Jews of Springfield in the Ozarks," a beautiful pictorial history of the Jewish individuals and families who have helped to make our community what it is today.

The book is part of co-author Mara W. Cohen Ioannides' Doctorate of Science in Jewish Studies from the Spertus Institute of Jewish Leadership and Learning in Chicago. Her work, done with co-author and fellow English teacher at Missouri State University M. Rachel Gholson, has provided a fascinating look at a migration that started in the 1860s and continues. The News-Leader is proud to have been a part of the project by providing access to our files. The book, which is published by Arcadia Publishing, is available at most area bookstores.

'Tis a privilege to wish all of our Jewish neighbors a blessed Passover. The festival began Monday evening with the traditional Seder meal and continues throughout the week as Jews commemorate the Exodus, in which Moses led the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt to the Promised Land.

'Tis a privilege to wish our Christian neighbors a blessed Holy Week and Easter. The week began with Palm Sunday and will continue with daily observances, including Good Friday and concluding Sunday with the celebration of Easter, commemorating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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We're cheering you on, Panthers

Good news is not hard to find in the Ozarks, as we illustrate regularly with an editorial feature we call: 'Tis a privilege.